Matched array flight alignment system and method

ABSTRACT

A matched array technology system and method for displaying in a two-dimensional array the structured interaction between different parameters of an aircraft flight. Specific applications effectively support improved flight safety and greater fuel efficiency. Proxy values of flight metrics are defined and scaled so the axes of the array contain corresponding indicators resulting in a matched array and an embedded, unique alignment vector showing the relationships between different flight variables. The flight alignment system may be used with flight data that contain discontinuities and nonlinear reversions. Wherever values intersect, flight alignment system indicators can depict proximity to the alignment vector, as well as the direction and extent of adjustments to either or both selected flight metrics to achieve and maintain controlled flight.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The present application is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 17/067,133, filed Oct. 9, 2020, which is a continuation-in-partof U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/875,297, filed on May 15, 2020,now U.S. Pat. No. 10,803,085, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 16/785,745, filed on Feb. 10, 2020, now U.S.Pat. No. 10,657,684, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 16/679,840, filed on Nov. 11, 2019, which claims the prioritybenefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/781,915, filed onDec. 19, 2018, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62/810,610,filed on Feb. 26, 2019, each of which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to electronic display of systemperformance, and more particularly to a method and computing system foraligning two variables relating to aircraft flight characteristics toproduce a target result or acceptable range of results.

BACKGROUND

A number of operational systems depend on the alignment of two differentmeasures to efficiently or safely produce desired results. Suchoperations generally require a human operator's expertise and continualevaluation of the two different variables, often viewed on differentgauges involving different metrics, and relying on measurement,experience, or “feel,” to keep the system within operational parametersthat yield the desired outcomes. Examples include chemical processes inwhich an exact and dynamic combination of heat and pressure is requiredto produce a specific compound, or aircraft flight operations in whichan exact and dynamic combination of airspeed and angle-of-attack canmean the difference between a safe landing and loss of control. Suchjoint optimization situations involve coordinating the changing valuesof differently-measured variables, adjusting them together over adefined range, and keeping them within required bounds until targetoutcomes are achieved. Ordinarily, a significant effort is required tokeep the operating variables aligned, and in some cases, failure to doso can result in a range of operating failures, including wasted productor even explosions in chemical environments; and accidents on takeoffand landing in flight.

DRAWINGS

While the appended claims set forth the features of the presenttechniques with particularity, these techniques may be best understoodfrom the following detailed description taken in conjunction with theaccompanying drawings of which:

FIG. 1 is a representation of a matched array system receiving physicalinput (e.g., pressure, heat, or electrical inputs from a system such asa chemical or mechanical system), according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a representation of a matched array system receiving differentdata streams (from an administrative system), comparing them, anddisplaying them to optimize a process, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a process flow diagram showing steps involved in setting up amatched array system, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart that depicts a process in which there are inputsto and outputs from a matched array system, wherein an output from thematched array system (e.g., shown on a display device) is a set ofinstructions a user can follow to adjust system variables to achieve“normative” optimization, according to an embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a flow chart depicting a process in which a matched arraysystem directly instructs the physical system to take the actionsdictated by the matched array position, thus automatically moving thephysical system toward “positive” optimization, according to anembodiment.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example use case for a matched array systemconfigured according to an embodiment involving the coordination ofaircraft airspeed and angle of attack.

FIGS. 7A and 7B show examples for discontinuous and nonlinear reversionswhere a synthetic approach may be useful to calculate and displayalignment.

FIG. 8 illustrates an embodiment where decomposition, windowing, andsynthesis are applied to arrays over discontinuous and nonlinearreversion flight trajectories.

FIG. 9 is a process flow diagram according to an embodiment portrayingthe alignment computation process of FIG. 3 , adjusted to apply thesynthetic method to discontinuous and nonlinear reversion scenarios.

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of a matched array aircraft flight alignmentsystem display device for a discontinuous flight path as an aircraftmoves through the five windows of takeoff, ascent, level flight,descent, and landing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

This disclosure is generally directed to a system and method fordisplaying (e.g., on a display device) in a two-dimensional array thestructured interaction of two variables moving in tandem to achieve atarget outcome (for example, balancing heat and pressure in a chemicalreaction to yield a given compound). In various embodiments, thefeasible values of the two system operating variables are represented byproxy values of X and Y scaled so that the range and interval of the X-and Y-axes are the same, and configured so that whenever the system isin an equilibrium or optimal state, the proxy value of X and equals theproxy value of Y. The resulting display has at least two distinctfeatures: first, it forms a “matched array” of alloperationally-relevant X,Y intersections, and second, the points atwhich the system is in equilibrium or at an optimum (the same points atwhich proxy values of X and Y are equal) all lie along a unique,clearly-delineated center diagonal of the displayed output (e.g., on adisplay device) referred to herein as the “alignment vector.” Further,the system and method for extending the utility of the process toflights involving discontinuous or nonlinear reversions (where x canhave multiple values of y) is addressed, including how the system ismade to work in such environments by synthetically reconstructing theflight data to address these complexities.

According to an embodiment, wherever on the display X and Y intersect,cells of the display can reflect several indicators of use to systemoperators: the values of the underlying operating variables, theirproximity to the optimal position along the alignment vector, and thedirection and extent of adjustments needed to reach the alignment vectorto achieve optimal system performance. The presentation of the displaycan be on a display device (such as a computer monitor) including amatrix with shading and colors reflecting values relative to thealignment vector.

In an embodiment, the matched array system indicates the proximity to ordistance from the optimal position of the X,Y values with an audiblewarning. In one implementation, the output is in an airplane cockpitinstrument, in which the audio warnings sound when the X,Y intersectionis dangerously far from the alignment vector, and with instructions onwhat to do to return to the desired flight path.

In an embodiment, the matched array system operates in two modes:normative, as in the above examples, in which the monitor or instrumentprovides information to be acted upon; and positive, in which thesystem, acting on the same information, automatically makes the neededadjustments to move the system toward the operating state represented bythe alignment vector.

According to various embodiments, a “matched array” system and methodfacilitates coordinated achievement of joint optimization results usinga computerized display system and method that combines the two differentmetrics in one display, and articulating optimal settings along a unique“alignment vector.” The result is easier achievement of moreconsistently optimal performance, even by less experienced users.

In an embodiment, the matched array system and method can also beapplied to discontinuous and nonlinear relationships using additionalanalytical methods. Aircraft angle of attack is steeper on takeoff thanon landing, where, counterintuitively, it almost matches the AOA inlevel flight. Representing these processes in a display requires smoothchanges and discontinuous state transitions to be reflected in a sharedvisual environment.

Turning to FIG. 1 , the operation of a matched array system according toan embodiment will now be described. In this embodiment, the matchedarray system receives physical input (e.g., pressure, heat, orelectrical inputs from a system such as a chemical or mechanical system)from a physical system 101. The physical system 101 is similar to onethat might be found in a chemical process in which the collected metricsindicate physical phenomena such a pressure, heat, or mechanicalimpulses. The physical input is received by a transducer 102, whichtranslates it into analog electrical signals. These analog electricalsignals are received by an analog-to-digital (A/D) converter 103, whichconverts the analog signals into digital signals. The digital signalsare provided to a digital signal processor (DSP) 104, which processes(e.g., filters) the signals into a form that is usable by a meter 105 orother device for displaying measurements. The processed signal is alsoused by an alignment computer 106 (which can be implemented as aseparate hardware processor such as a controller or microprocessor, oras a computing device such as that shown in FIG. 10 ) that analyzes therange of feasible values of x and (later) y to determine a correspondingset of proxy values that form the X and Y axes of a matrix display. Thealignment computer 106 controls a display device 107 (to display amatched array). A parallel set of actions is taking place in in a secondtransducer 108, a second A/D converter 109, and a DSP 110, resulting ina signal 111 input to the alignment computer 106. The alignment computer106 converts x and y metrics to proxy values that have the same rangeand interval on the X and Y axes, respectively. The display device 107plots the proxy values as an intersection on the matched array (i.e., inresponse to actual metric 1 and 2 data received).

In FIG. 2 , the operation of a matched array system according to anadditional embodiment is illustrated. In this embodiment, the matchedarray system receives data (e.g., business or financial information)from a business system 201. A data base 202 receives metric 1 and metric2 data from the business system and feeds them into a data processor 203which modifies the data for meaningful manipulation in later stages(e.g., conversion to log numbers, multiplication by a relevantcoefficient, formatting). In an embodiment, an additional optional stepprocesses the two data elements through an analytics engine 204 thatmight also, for example, combine the data received with additional data205, or otherwise enhance, interpret, or modify the data for processingby an alignment computer. The alignment computer 206 converts the twovariables to proxy values that have the same range and interval on the Xand Y axes, respectively, enabling them to be plotted together on amatched array display 207.

FIG. 3 portrays an “alignment computer” 300 and the series of actions itimplements to calibrate the axes of the matched array system so thatwhen the overall system is at an optimum or in equilibrium, proxy valuesfor x and y are equal. The matched array system can portray optimum orequilibrium positions when two conditions are present: first, each proxyvalue axis X or Y must be able to represent the relevant range of theunderlying operating metrics; and second, the range and interval of theproxy values are the same. When these conditions exist, intersection setx=y will lie along the center diagonal of a rectilinear array. When thesystem designer or alignment computer follows these guidelines, thematched array will be properly calibrated, and the settings will beapplicable to the foreseeable functioning of the matched array system inmuch the same way that the scale of a car's speedometer does not have tobe re-calibrated for each trip.

In an embodiment in FIG. 3 , a system designer or a microprocessor setsthree specific conditions that support alignment computer operations:the operating system objective function 301 (e.g., product yield,aircraft flight orientation), the range and period of operation of theunderlying operating system 302, and any constraints and discontinuities303 that apply to the metrics of the underlying operating system.Together, these settings ensure that the matched array system can searchand calculate proxy values within the appropriate feasible range ofvalues for x and y when a system operator, or alternatively amicroprocessor or transducer, introduces test or actual operating datato the matched array system database 304. In an embodiment, afterreceiving the data, or alternatively concurrent with the receipt ofdata, a system operator may manually, or a microprocessor mayautomatically, initiate the alignment computer process 305 based on thedata received.

An alignment computer begins calculating the eventual alignment betweenproxy values for the actual operating metrics by first computing therange and interval of operating system metrics 1 and 2 in steps 306 and307. The alignment computer then calculates at step 308 the subset ofmatched operating metric settings for which values the underlying systemis stable or optimal in achieving the objective function specified in301. Using the range and intervals of the operating metrics 1 and 2 ofthe underlying system, and the specific joint optima computed in step308, the matched array computer calculates in step 309 the set ofoptimal proxy value combinations corresponding to the optimal operatingmetrics 1 and 2. Working from this set of optimal x and y proxy values,and incorporating the range and intervals reflected in the actualoperating data, the alignment computer converts metric 1 and 2 operatingdata to proxy values 1 and 2 at steps 310 and 311. For purposes of thematched array, this process computes the values along the centerdiagonal—the alignment vector—and then identifies all related values(optimal or not) along the X and Y axes. The alignment computercalculates proxy values iteratively, checking that the proxy valuescorrespond to the optimal operating values in step 312, and stoppingwhen the equivalence between proxy and operating values has beenestablished, indicating that the condition of proxy value equality atx=y corresponds directly to the optimality of the underlying operatingsystem values (“proxy-operating equivalence”).

When the alignment computer has established proxy-operating equivalencein step 312, all the conditions for specifying the matched array display313 are established:

-   -   a. the operating ranges and relevant intervals for metrics 1 and        2 have been identified;    -   b. the subset of operating ranges and relevant intervals of        metrics 1 and 2 values for which the operating system is stable,        optimized, or at equilibrium have been identified;    -   c. the corresponding set of optimal proxy values of metrics 1        and 2 have been designated and their equivalence to the optimal        operating metrics validated;    -   d. the common range and interval for the X and Y axes of proxy        values 1 and 2 have been specified, delineating a rectilinear        matrix called a matched array;    -   e. every point at which proxy value x equals proxy value y        represents an optimal or equilibrium state of the underlying        operating system;    -   f. the range of values at which x=y designates the center        diagonal of the matched array, called an “alignment vector.”

The alignment computer generates a matched array display at block 313,including a matrix of feasible intersection points in the array of X andY values, and a diagonal “alignment vector” of all intersection pointsfor which the proxy value of x equals the proxy value of y. For anyembodiment of the system in which the conditions and optima remaingenerally the same, this setup process is implemented once and itsresults will apply to all reasonably similar cases, in much the same waythe settings on an instrument gauge are calibrated to reflect the knownparameters and limits of the system being measured, then applied to allinstruments produced, and used in all reasonably foreseeable operatingconditions.

FIG. 4 shows an embodiment of the matched array system that generatesinstructions an operator can follow to reach a desired target state inthe underlying operating system. These instructions are not implementedby the system, but represent the “normative” series of prescriptiveadjustments a system operator should follow to achieve the target stateas it responds to changing metric 1 and metric 2 data received. Thematched array system in such an embodiment shows one or multiple stepsthat move from a current position toward the alignment vector. Becausethe alignment vector represents proxy-operating equivalence, these stepsrepresent provisional changes that move toward optimization in theunderlying operating system.

Actual operating metrics data generated by the underlying system 401 and402 are displayed in an embodiment on the meters 401 a and 402 a. Thealignment computer receives metric data 1 and 2 in blocks 403 and 404 inan embodiment and converts them in steps 405 and 406 to their respectiveproxy values. The alignment computer then calculates alignment betweenproxy values 1 and 2 at step 407, generating the matched array. Thematched array system then plots the intersection of these values on thematched array at step 408. The matched array system then calculates at409 the position of the resulting intersection in relation to thealignment vector on the matched array. The distance and direction of theplotted position relative to the alignment vector reflects the state ofthe system and the effort and direction required to achieve proxy valuealignment which signals optimization or equilibrium in the underlyingoperating system. The matched array system state monitor (e.g., softwareexecuting on the same computing device as the matched array system)generates a compilation of system data at 410, creating a completepicture of system performance and status for review and interpretationby the system operator.

In alternate embodiments, the system state monitor 410 can show systemstate and performance in the form of a colored light, with differentcolors indicating the degree of system stability, risk, or otherdimensions of performance. A more complex system state indicator on thematched array 411 can, in various alternate embodiments, generatedetailed lists of original metrics, proxy values, implicated stabilitymetrics (e.g., temperature or pressure limits approached or exceeded),recommended rate and direction of change, degrees of adjustment needed,as well as the estimated speed and time to recovery or attainment ofoptimization in the underlying system. The matched array systemcontinually checks if an optimum is attained at step 412 by comparingplotted values to the alignment vector values. In an embodiment, thematched array system continues to evaluate the relative values of systemvariables at steps 413 and 414 to determine which is closer to thealignment vector, potentially offering the more efficient path toalignment.

Further to FIG. 4 , and acting on this information, the matched arraysystem generates normative adjustments 415 and 416 in values for proxyvalues 1 and 2. In an embodiment, the matched array system receives theadjusted data 415, 416 and converts the updated proxy values to newactual system metrics 417 and 418. The projected results of making suchnormative adjustments will be reflected in changes in position relativeto the alignment vector 409. The system can continue to iterate untilprojected optimization threshold value is reached at step 412, at whichtime the matched array system will cease proposing adjustments and cometo rest at 419. In this normative mode, actual changes to the actualunderlying operating environment will only have been made as a result ofspecific actions the system operator executes in response to the matchedarray system instructions.

Continuing to FIG. 5 , note that the series of actions 501 to 518 areidentical to those at blocks 401 to 418 in FIG. 4 , encompassing allactivities from the initial system metrics, to conversion and renderingon the matched array display, to the determination of proxy valueadjustments needed to achieve optimization, and the conversion of theseproxy values to updated operating metrics. Whereas the embodimentpictured in FIG. 4 stopped with directional instructions to a systemoperator, FIG. 5 illustrates an embodiment of the matched array systemthat further instructs the actual operating system to make specificunderlying system adjustments consistent with approaching, andeventually reaching, the alignment vector on the matched array.Specifically, the matched array system instructs changes to underlyingmetrics 1 and 2, respectively, at steps 519 and 520 in line with theproxy value adjustments indicated in the matched array. In an embodimentas shown in FIG. 5 , the instruction is issued but not acted upon untilan operator checks the system state indicator displays 521 and 522 toview any changes that may have taken place since prior changes or fromthe initial state, and to review the projected impact of instructedadjustments 519 and 520 before they are executed by the matched arraysystem.

Further to FIG. 5 , in an embodiment, the system operator activates oneor more switches 523 and 524, releasing the system (Yes, or preventingrelease, No) to make the system-proposed adjustments. If the switchesare shifted to No, then the system takes no action other than to updatestate indicator display 510 which also captures any other changes in thesystem state. Alternatively, in such an embodiment, if the systemoperator releases the system at 523 and 524, the matched array systemexecutes the instructions 519 and 520, and these directives areimplemented in the operating system, working through the metric 1 andmetric 2 actuators (or a related mechanism) 525 and 526. Theseadjustments generate actual system changes that move the system to a newstate, causing the system to update metrics data 501 and 502. In thisembodiment, the matched array system continues to receive and processactual system data, processes this information relative to proxy values,and iterates closer to the alignment vector as long as this is unimpededby an operator instruction or internal system rule that interrupts orcounters the system operation. The system will continue to processinstructions to new positions in the matched array display 511,continually tracking plotted positions relative to the alignment vector.In an embodiment, the matched array system will iterate to an optimizedstate until the alignment vector is reached, meaning proxy value x=proxyvalue y, causing the switch 512 to acknowledge optimization, and endingthe cycle at system stopping point 526.

Next is an application of the matched array system and alignment vectortechnologies applied to a critical use case of aircraft flight. Expertshave argued that most pilots do not understand the relationship betweenairspeed and angle of attack, as evidenced by the high incidence of“loss of control” flight accidents. Angle of attack (AOA) is the anglebetween the oncoming air and a reference line along the fuselage or wingof an airplane. On takeoff, the pilot pulls back on the control stick orwheel to lift the nose of the aircraft so angle of attack relative tooncoming wind maximizes lift at a given airspeed. The amount of liftneeded for an aircraft to achieve takeoff, to stay in flight, tomaneuver, and to land, is directly related to the interaction of AOA andairspeed. While other variables enter consideration (weight which isconstantly changing as fuel is consumed, aerodynamic drag, and forcesexerted due to maneuvers), the “angle of attack challenge” refers to thecriticality of maintaining the proper relationship between the airspeedand AOA to control lift so the aircraft gains altitude, stays aloft, orloses altitude in a controlled fashion (as in landing) as the pilotintends. The correct combinations of airspeed and AOA are essential tosafe flight. When the angle of attack is too steep at a given airspeed,there is insufficient lift, resulting in a stall. Alternatively, if theangle of attack is correct, say nose down for landing, but airspeed isinsufficient to maintain lift, a stall can also be precipitated causingloss of control. Accordingly, airspeed and AOA are two variables thatmove in tandem with one another to achieve optimal or equilibrium flightperformance. Being able to visualize and adjust both together in asingle instrument, as in the matched array system, would potentiallyavoid many loss of control accidents that occur due to the pilot'sexcessive focus on one instrument or flight condition (speed or AOA),rather than both together.

FIG. 6 is an embodiment of matched array and alignment vectortechnologies applied to the combination of airspeed and AOA in a singledisplay, enabling assignment of jointly-optimal values for bothvariables along the alignment vector. Among the instruments customarilyinstalled in modern aircraft are an airspeed indicator 601 and an AOAindicator 602. The latter is sometimes accompanied by an AOA index meter602 i, a simple, color-coded up, down, and on-target indicator to guidethe pilot to increase, decrease, or hold angle of attack to prevent astall at a given airspeed. Airspeed and AOA already represent electronicsignals that can be translated into digital inputs using the physicalsystem process described in FIG. 1 . An alignment computer 603implements the alignment computing process outlined in FIG. 3 , settingthe axes on the matched array, and establishing the alignment vector.The range of possible airspeeds and safe angles of attack are specificto the aircraft and its operating envelope. They will already have beenestablished and incorporated in the individual airspeed and AOAinstruments by a system designer, and the relevant range of eachvariable is input to the matched array system to generate the alignedvalues for which takeoff, level flight, and final approach/landingscenarios are identified. Accordingly, the axes on the matched arraydisplay 604 show the proxy values x and y corresponding to the airspeedand AOA relevant to the aircraft, and applicable to achievingcombinations of airspeed and angle of attack consistent with controlledflight.

Continuing with FIG. 6 , an airspeed/angle of attack matched arraysystem 604 is shown, along with a set of airspeed and AOA plottedpositions a, b, and c. These positions are associated with cockpit audioannouncement scenarios shown in the surrounding panels 605 ca, 606 ca,and 607 ca. Each scenario represents an actual airspeed-AOA combinationshown on individual instruments and represented together by a plottedposition based on proxy values on the matched array. In an embodiment,alignment vector 604 av represents the combinations of airspeed andangle of attack consistent with controlled flight, and 604AV identifiesan expanded alignment vector inclusive of approximations around thespecific cells 604 av for which controlled flight is achieved as well.At position ‘a,’ airspeed proxy value is 4 and angle of attack proxyvalue is 2. Vector 605 shows a direction and range of needed adjustmentthat is sufficiently far from the alignment vector that cockpitannunciator 605 ca issues a warning with the instruction to increaseangle of attack. In this embodiment, the system emits an audible warningover cockpit audio, “Warning: Too Fast,” indicating too high a speed forthe AOA setting, and recommending a steeper angle of attack.Alternatively, or in addition to an audible warning and/or visualwarning, a control signal may be generated to provide tactile or othermechanical sensory signals, such a vibration of the pilot controlstick—a “stick shaker” warning—or vibration of the pilot seat, toprovide a warning as to the deviation from the alignment vector. Atposition ‘b,’ airspeed and AOA are aligned and no adjustment is needed,so the cockpit audio system 606 ca does not issue any correction. Atposition ‘c,’ by contrast, the AOA is quite steep, and the airspeed toorelatively slow for safe flight. As a result, the matched array system604 causes the cockpit audio system to issue an example warning atcockpit audio 607 ca, signaling a “Warning: Nose High” condition and theassociated announcement 607 ca to “Increase Speed.”

Further to FIG. 6 , arrows 608 and 609 indicate alternative pathways toreturning to the alignment vector, by either reducing airspeed at vector608 for a given angle of attack (for example, during landing) ordecreasing AOA along vector 609 at a given airspeed (to maintain levelflight). Which pathway represents the preferred course of action dependson the specifics of the situation. In either case, returning to thealignment vector on the matched array provides the appropriate normativeguidance to the pilot on how to avoid a loss of control or return theaircraft to stable flight.

In the warning scenarios pursuant to the embodiment described, thepriority of direction (to adjust airspeed or AOA) can be predeterminedby the value of the metric or according to the specifics of the scenario(e.g., nose down and slowing speed for final approach and landing mightprioritize AOA adjustment vs slower speed). This use case follows thenormative mode of operation in which instructions are issued and noautomated action taken by an associated control system. In an alternateembodiment, the matched array system can operate in positive mode,sending actual instructions to the aircraft flight control system orautopilot to actually make the indicated adjustments to the aircraftflight control surfaces. Existing aircraft autopilot systems performthis function today, automatically calculating airspeed and receivingAOA data (from instruments mounted on one or both sides of thefuselage), and adjusting either metric based on aircraft designfeatures, specific flight characteristics, and the relevant flightconditions. However, autopilots have no corresponding display of thematched characteristics of AOA and airspeed to inform pilots of theconditions the autopilot is responding to, or to enable them to visuallymonitor the rate and direction of adjustment to confirm that theautopilot is adjusting the preferred metric in the desired direction toachieve and maintain flight control.

FIG. 7A shows one sample class of system behavior the synthetic approachto displaying alignment is designed to address. The illustration 701shows a classic discontinuity in which the same value of xo has twodifferent y values. The gap 702 represents the discontinuity. A similardiscontinuity exists at different y values where there may be more thanone x value as well.

In FIG. 7B, the illustration 703 represents the case of nonlinearreversions in which the fluctuating curve 704 maps out multiple x values705 for the same value of y₀, but encountered at different times in thelife of the process being illustrated. The challenge, then, is how todisplay alignment—the unique correspondence between x and y that existsat a point in time—when x and y can have multiple values as a result ofthe presence of these types of discontinuities and reversions.

FIG. 8 illustrates in an embodiment, a method of addressing the presenceof discontinuities and nonlinear reversions in a way that results indiscrete values of x and y that can then be modeled to support achievingand sustaining alignment. The synthetic method 801 begins withdecomposition of the profile of the system into segments that do notcontain discontinuities or reversions. Each of the decomposed segments802 frames a portion of the curves that have no such discontinuous orreverted profiles, and as many of these decomposed segments can becreated as needed. Note that the segments shown are taken with respectto the x axis, as there are multiple values of x for a given y. Ifreversions or discontinuities occur such that multiple values of y existfor a given x, then decomposition into segments can also be undertakenwith respect to they axis. The lifecycle of the system can be decomposedinto as many segments as needed to account for all discontinuities andreversions.

Further to FIG. 8 , the second step in the process of synthesis takeseach decomposed segment and defines it as a two-dimensional “window”embodying a discrete function reflecting the behavior of y with respectto x in the decomposed segment. Whereas decomposition delineatesone-dimensional segments, windowing frames the segments as functions 803for each window, defining the relationship between x and y in each. Forpurposes of alignment, each of these windows may show the operation ofthe system at x and y values to represent target, desired, or optimalvalues—the values that alignment is directed to reflect to ensure systemor process stability.

Continuing with FIG. 8 shows synthesis, the third and final step inrepresenting discontinuous and reversion functions for purposes ofdisplaying alignment. Synthesis combines the individual windows into aseries of functions that together represent the subject process orsystem 804 over the life of the process. Individual window functionsstart and end with the passage of time represented by the horizontalarrows t_(n), and these are linked according to how the systemfunctions.

FIG. 9 is a flow diagram similar to that of FIG. 3 , but updated toreflect the matched array computational process for syntheticcomputations. Specifically, steps 901 to 905 have been updated toreflect the synthesis method. Step 901 identifies all discontinuitiesand nonlinear reversions that need to be addressed to apply alignmentanalysis to the subject process flow. Such instances are then decomposedin step 902 into continuous ranges to identify where discontinuities andreversions need to be addressed. The next step 903 computes thefunctions that define the relationships between metric 1 and metric 2,forming the distinct windows of activity that apply to the process.Finally, those window functions are synthesized in step 904 into acontinuous representation of the system as a series of linked windowfunctions.

Further to FIG. 9 , the synthesized function in the matched arrayrepresents the end-to-end process for which resulting values for x and yare proxies for actual metric 1 and metric 2, arranged in such a waythat they generate a matched array in step 905. The values in thematched array represent the range of feasible combinations of metricproxy values of x and y. For purposes of alignment, all of the proxyvalues in the matched array that may be considered “desired,” “target,”“efficient,” or “optimal” constitute the alignment vector of thesynthesized array. Given the importance of aircraft fuel efficiency, thepotential to prioritize flight metrics that together optimize fuelconsumption is a high-value application of the flight alignmenttechnology. For example, selecting and managing flight routing,altitudes, and rates of ascent and descent all have significant impactson fuel economy. The alignment vector designated in the embodiment ofFIG. 3 consisted of all points for which proxy values for x equaledproxy values for y, forming a linear diagonal vector. In the case ofdiscontinuous and nonlinear systems, which may be handled with theprocess of FIG. 9 , the alignment vector of target values can benonlinear, and located anywhere in the matched array.

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment of synthetic matched array technologyapplied to representing the flight of an aircraft from takeoff tolanding. The context is a flight alignment instrument display 1000representing the interaction of any two variables relevant to thesubject flight, such as airspeed and angle of attack, or altitude andairspeed, etc. Such a use case provides value to the pilot and co-pilotby providing a visual basis for quickly assessing whether the combinedselected settings for position, altitude, speed, and attitude(collectively, the state) of the aircraft are within safe or desiredranges. This is of special value, for example, during long trans-oceanicflights during which loss of contact with standard navigational systemsdue to distance from customary beacons, combined with blindness tovisual cues due to darkness, requires extra diligence and continuousunderstanding of the aircraft's changing state at all times.

The following are exemplary components, features, and functionality ofthe flight alignment instrument 1000 pursuant to design principles andengineering capabilities of synthetic matched array technology:

-   -   a. Alignment computer. The alignment computer 1000 a computes        the target relationships between the selected metrics,        generating the matched array and alignment vector corresponding        to actual system performance. Upon selection of the metrics to        be entered using switches 1001 a and 1002 a, or other input        devices, and the system uploads the corresponding computed        metrics and relationships. Data from the aircraft's flight        navigation system can also be uploaded to the flight alignment        system directly.    -   b. Flight metric 1. The aircraft will already be equipped with        digital or electromechanical instruments for airspeed 1001 b and        altitude 1001 c, for example, and the same signal feeds        informing these instruments can be used to provide data feeds to        the flight alignment instrument. The display screen scale 1001 d        can show the actual scale of the metric or a proxy value such as        1, 2, 3, etc. Further, symbols or lights can be deployed to show        progress along the instrument scale consistent with the progress        of the flight. If actual metric data is shown the scale will        increase and then decrease as it is read from bottom to top, in        line with the increase in speed to level flight and decrease to        descent and landing. Flight metric 1 data may be input using        keyboard 1003, or other input device, such as a touch screen        interface or voice interface.    -   c. Flight metric 2. This axis captures the alternate metric the        pilot may wish to coordinate with flight metric 1, and is        selected using flight metric selector switch 1002 a. Shown by        way of example are options for vertical air speed 1002 b and        angle of attack 1002 c instruments, and the digital or        electromechanical feeds to these instruments supply data to the        flight alignment instrument as well. The metric scale for this        axis of the array can also consist of actual or proxy values, or        symbols for progress or the passage of time. Flight metric 2        data may be input using keyboard 1003, or other input device.    -   d. Flight segments. Segments of the flight are selected so as to        avoid discontinuities or reversions, resulting in a smooth        contour suitable to use in composing the alignment vector. To        achieve this, the flight may be divided into five windows 1004:        takeoff, ascent, flight, descent, and landing. Pressing the        segment selector button causes the screen to display that        segment across the entire screen. In addition, 1005 provides        variable magnification for each flight segment, with the degree        to magnification controlled by a manual dial 1006.    -   e. Alignment vector. The flight alignment system instrument        supports unambiguous interpretation of flight management        parameters, and part of its utility is the ability to combine        actual metrics and user-friendly forms to facilitate safe and        intuitive flight. The alignment vector 1007 is the product of        both the alignment computer calculations and an        intuitively-designed user interface that illustrates the overall        contour of the flight (as reflected in the up, level, down        stages) using an S-curve design. Alignment computer correlations        between the selected flight metrics are mapped to this alignment        vector 1007, and the specific location of the current flight        state is identified by an indicator shown as the crosshair        marker 1008. Indicators identify when the aircraft is not on the        alignment vector. For example, the airplane-arrow icon 1009        shows the aircraft flying at an angle of attack (relative to the        x axis) that is too steep to remain on the alignment path, and        identifies the direction in which flight changes can be made        such that alignment can be attained. Similarly, airplane-arrow        icon 1010 indicates the airspeed is too slow to remain on the        alignment vector, and the direction and amount of adjustment are        reflected by the position and length of the arrow.        The following describes the general features and functionality        of an embodiment of the flight alignment system 1000. In an        embodiment:    -   a. The alignment vector can track the end-to-end flight        trajectory of the aircraft, providing a visual reference to the        relationship between key flight metrics throughout flight.        Safety and control resulting from more rapid assessment of        multiple data points is a primary objective. Additionally,        flight alignment can be used to assist pilots in achieving        greater fuel efficiency by enabling compliance with the best        “fuel-efficient flight trajectory.”    -   b. The alignment vector itself is a visual reference point to        the desired range of values for key flight metrics. It can        either be a straight-line diagonal in the matched array, or made        more closely attuned to the flight parameters. In the example        provided, the S-curve configuration maps to the “shape” of the        flight's five core stages: takeoff, ascent, level flight,        descent, and landing.    -   c. The system is designed to issue warnings and prompts if the        position of the matched array strays too far from the alignment        vector. The warning distance is adjustable, and the means of        prompting action can be electro-mechanical (for example, “stick        shaker” or other means), audio, or visual through integrated or        separate flashing lights, or a combination of such prompts. The        magnitude or intensity of the prompts may be increased or        decreased automatically in relation to the deviation from the        alignment vector, a feature that may serve as a type of warning        system.    -   d. Segmentation of the flight trajectory balances the        elimination of discontinuities on the one hand, and designation        of meaningful segments from the perspective of utility to the        user. When the achievement of intuitive user meaning is at odds        with where decomposition needs to take place for the elimination        of discontinuities, the scope of decomposition can be deepened        to add breakdowns that can then be reassembled into segments        that have more meaning to users.    -   e. Magnification of flight segments is designed to enable pilots        to view the details of alignment in any segment of the flight.        Magnification can be set at a fixed level, increased or        decreased manually, and triggered automatically during portions        of flight based on preset conditions.    -   f. The flight alignment system can accept details of the flight        plan directly from the aircraft navigation system, or details        can be input manually. Further, adjustments can be made through        uploads from the autopilot. The system can also be integrated        with real-time navigation to update the alignment system to        adjust to changes in the flight plan (e.g., for avoidance of        weather systems or air traffic congestion).

It should be understood that the embodiments described herein should beconsidered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes oflimitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each embodimentshould typically be considered as available for other similar featuresor aspects in other embodiments. It will be understood by those ofordinary skill in the art that various changes in form and details maybe made therein without departing from their spirit and scope.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for displaying, in a two-dimensionalarray, combinations of aircraft flight metrics, the method, implementedon a system including at least one display device and at least one inputdevice, comprising: displaying cells of the array on the at least onedisplay device; displaying, on the display device, an X-axis of valuesof the array and a Y-axis of values of the array; receiving, by the atleast one input device, a first flight metric and a corresponding secondflight metric, wherein at least one of the first flight metric and thecorresponding second flight metric is received from a pre-existingsystem or flight metric instrument of the aircraft; scaling the firstflight metric into a first flight metric proxy value and scaling thesecond flight metric into a second flight metric proxy value; on the atleast one display device, displaying, in a cell of the array thatcorresponds to an intersection of the first flight metric proxy valueand the second flight metric proxy value, an indicator that visuallyindicates a distance between the cell and an alignment vector, whereinthe alignment vector is defined by cells or portions of cells of thetwo-dimensional array which represent a desired range of thecombinations of the first and second flight metric proxy values for atleast a portion of the aircraft flight.
 2. The method of claim 1 whereinthe at least one input device comprises an interface with thepre-existing system or flight metric instrument of the aircraft.